Thursday, August 14, 2014

July 29th and August 4th, the Instructional Technology Department hosted its first ever "Mobile Device Academy." These 59 sessions were designed to introduce teachers to dynamic web applications and mobile apps for integrating technology into their curricular areas. These web and mobile apps can be used in almost any curriculum and in any grade level using either iPads, Chromebooks, laptops, or other BYOD devices.

Most sessions were 50 minutes in length and focused on just one or two apps. Flip through the HaikuDeck below to see the session titles:

The feedback from these sessions were overwhelmingly positively- but, of course, there is always room for improvement. So as we move forward, we will revamp and revise sessions to offer the best technology staff development available that is both engaging and relevant.

If you would like any additional information about any of the sessions in the Haiku Deck above, please see your Campus Technology Liaison (if you are an Arlington ISD teacher). Otherwise, shoot us a message and we'd be glad to share!

Monday, August 11, 2014

“[Loved] hearing other teachers and students teach about tech they are using in the classroom.”

“I liked being able to talk and gather ideas from fellow teachers,”

“[I enjoyed] being allowed to lead our own sessions. It was nice to hear the conversations flow naturally from one subject to another.”

“I loved the collaboration. It was nice to not have to just listen to a PowerPoint.”

“THIS WAS GREAT!! Many workshops will cater to the people who do not know anything, this one catered to all......asked lots of questions and got many answers......sooooooo glad I came. Well worth the time.”

“There were many useful applications for my classroom.”

“I enjoyed learning about how to design and use the 3D printer.”

[We] learned lots of tips and tricks for managing technology. Also, lots of fun apps and websites to incorporate into the classroom and get the students involved.”

“Cool format. Met my needs exactly. Fast paced. Effective.”

“Informative, interactive, peer driven. Plenty of time for questions, one on one with presenter.”

“I gained new info in a very relaxed setting. All of the presenters were very helpful. Answered all questions, enjoyed the snacks and gifts. Super camp.”

Lesley Cano, Remynse Librarian speaks about the 3D printer!

Setting the afternoon schedule

As you can see, teachers, facilitators, and participants raved and learned a lot at this year’s host school, Adams Elementary. After a morning of scheduled sessions led by many ITD specialists, TLI specialists, and teachers, participants had the chance to “choose their own” topics for discussion in the afternoon. Participants collaborated in a number of designated areas as well as congregating in groups of their own makings in the hallways and classrooms. Martin HS student Nyssa Turner spoke about her experiences in Computer Science and shared her experiences as a founding member and president of a coding group for students, called Warrior Women Who Code.

MHS senior, Nyssa Turner, president of Warrior Women Who Code

Thank you all for making this year’s camp a success. We hope to offer similar trainings throughout the year and for sure another EdCamp is scheduled for next year! Party On! Margaret and Jana